Manningham United MiniRoos Match Day Roles

Here are the roles required on Match day to have a fun, safe, inclusive and development environment for all young footballers:

• Coach / Assistant Coach
• Team Manager
• Match day Marshalls
• Referee (Game Leader)
• Parents / Carers

Coach / Assistant Coach

1. Prioritise Player Welfare and Safety

• Arrive early to ensure the pitch and equipment meet safety standards (e.g. no potholes, tripping hazards, players all have shin pads).
• Monitor player readiness and manage warm-ups to prevent injury.
• Follow medical advice regarding injuries and return-to-play decisions.

2. Foster Positive Development and Respect

• Greet players warmly and encourage them with supportive feedback.
• Adjust coaching approach to suit players' skill levels and developmental stages.
• Promote respect for teammates, opponents, and match officials.

3. Prepare and Organise Efficiently

• Arrive minimum 30 minutes before kickoff to confirm pitch location and setup.
• Warm up players minimum 20 minutes prior, focusing on readiness and team cohesion.
• Finalise logistics 10 minutes prior by coordinating with referees, marshalls, and the opposing coach.

4. Uphold the Spirit and Laws of the Game

• Teach and remind players to play fairly and within the rules.
• Reinforce good sportsmanship, including post-game handshakes.
• Set a professional example by avoiding negative behaviour (e.g. no smoking or alcohol, no yelling at the Game Day Leaders).

5. Lead with Integrity and Accountability

• Work with Game Leaders and marshals to understand age appropriateness and limits.
• Represent the team positively through respectful and composed actions.
• Recognise that the coach’s behaviour influences the team’s public image.

Team Manager

1. Primary Parent Liaison

• Act as the main point of contact for all parents.
• Communicate any pitch changes or important updates clearly and promptly.

2. Match day Preparation and Setup

• Ensure the referee (Game Leader) is appointed, equipped (e.g. whistle), and understands the correct age-group rules (MiniRoos).
• Confirm the marshal is ready and wearing the high-vis vest from the TM kit.
• Check the snack/lolly parent has fulfilled their duty before kickoff.

3. Safety and Pitch Management

• Conduct a pitch safety inspection with the marshal before the game.
• Remove any hazards or unsafe objects from the playing area.
• Ensure the First Aid bag is ready to go and used for any children who may get injured.

4. Matchday Support (Non-Coaching)

• Assist coaches by managing logistics and attending to any non-coaching needs.
• Help ensure injured players are safely escorted to parents (if needed) and/or monitored.

5. Oversee Game Environment

• Remain in the technical area without coaching.
• Step in to notify the marshal if there are serious refereeing concerns affecting player safety.

Match day Marshalls

Each game should have 1-2 marshals from the home team and 1 marshal from the away team.

1. Pre-Match Safety and Equipment Checks

• Arrive at least 15 minutes before kick-off and conduct safety inspections.
• Ensure goal nets are secure, corner flags are stable, and the field is clear of hazards.

2. Visible Presence and Identification

• Wear a clearly identifiable vest at all times.
• Remain visible and actively monitor the field.
• Politely ask parents and the public to stay off the pitch area.

3. Liaison with Teams and Officials

• Serve as the primary contact for visiting teams and match officials.
• Provide introductions and guidance about facilities.
• Escort referees to and from the field.
• Remind parents at Manningham home games to stay behind the fence for the whole match.

4. Enforcement of Code of Conduct

• Address negative or disrespectful behaviour promptly.
• Only Ground Marshals may approach referees regarding conduct issues.

5. Incident Management and Reporting

• Seek help from committee members or MPIO if needed.
• Document and report significant incidents appropriately.

Referee (Game Leader)

In MiniRoos, there are no referees — only Game Leaders helping kids understand the rules and enjoy the game.

1. Create a Positive and Fun Environment

• Promote enjoyment, participation, and player development.
• Be enthusiastic, approachable, and encouraging.

2. Facilitate Game Flow

• Keep the game moving with minimal stoppages.
• Use instructions before using the whistle.
• Apply advantage where appropriate.

3. Support Learning and Development

• Help players understand rules.
• Be patient and flexible with players learning the game.

4. Ensure Safety and Fairness

• Monitor for dangerous behaviour and involve coaches as needed.
• Enforce player number rules and distances.
• Conduct the game safely and fairly.

5. Model Respectful Behaviour

• Encourage sportsmanship from all participants.
• Focus on development, not just winning.
• Remain professional and substance-free.

Parents/Carers on Match Day

1. Support Your Child’s Enjoyment

• Let children play for fun.
• Encourage participation without pressure.

2. Focus on Effort, Not Just Results

• Praise effort and improvement.
• Avoid criticism for mistakes.
• Do not coach from the sidelines.

3. Be a Positive Role Model

• Respect everyone involved.
• Applaud both teams and avoid hostility.
• Help with setup and pack up when possible.

4. Respect the Rules and Officials

• Support fair play and calm conflict resolution.
• Accept Game Leader decisions respectfully.
• Be behind the fence 5 minutes before the game and only enter if invited.

5. Uphold a Safe and Inclusive Environment

• Never use violence, discrimination, or offensive language.
• Foster a respectful and welcoming atmosphere.
• If you have been asked to attend to your child on the pitch, be mindful of other games when entering / exiting the pitch.